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Fishing Report for the Florida Panhandle
Capt. Alex Crawford
January 31, 2006
Carrabelle - Saltwater Fishing Report
INSHORE BITE IS SLOW
Over the past few weeks the winter weather fronts have been like a roller coaster. We go from days of cold nights in the 30’s to several days of daytime temps in the lower 70’s. Typical of winter weather on the forgotten coast, the high and low pressure systems put fish in a lock jaw mode. The inshore surface water temps have been in the high fifties and low sixties. The reds and trout become very lethargic in this cold water and their metabolism/hunger is naturally abated.
Some species like black drum and sheepshead find colder water more to their liking. February is prime spawning time for cold water fish like sheepshead. Don’t ask why this is true, it just is!
Early season reports on trout tell of decent action in the deeper holes north of Apalach in the East and Little St. Marks Rivers. Further East, anglers are catching trout under the Carrabelle River bridge.
Best artificial baits are the old standby Mirrorlures in your confidence colors. Chartreuse ½ ounce jigs worked slowly in the deepest part of the river bend always take nice fish. And, live shrimp will take lethargic trout and a frisky red or flounder. Employ a slow action to entice these cold water critters.
As always, try to schedule your early trout soirees to coincide with the periods of maximum current. Check your tide charts to catch more fish.
Remember, February is closed in the Northwest region to recreational possession of trout. Catch and release will warm your body and spirits. It does not always have to be a meat hunt. Pick a warm winter day and do it! Spring will be here soon, just check out the yellow pine pollen on your car.
Have fun, go fish!
Captain Alex Crawford
www.topknots.com
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